Dudhkunda Khaling Culture Trek

Dudhkunda (4,560m), the holy lake situated in the lap of Mt. Number is a popular trekking destination of Nepal. Literally, 'Dudhkunda' means the "lake of milk' is said to be a sacred lake and is revered by the local people. This trek can be completed either starting from Phaplu back to Salleri or can be combined with the cultural experience passing through Khaling Rai settlements. We can also observe dense forests of rhododendron and a variety of wildlife along the trail. This trek can provide one with a close encounter with the unique Khaling Rais of this area. It is generally believed that taking a dip in its holy waters will fulfill one's wishes. A weeklong celebration is held in Dudhkunda by pilgrims and Jhankris (shaman priests) during full-moon nights in August.

Khaling Rais are the dominant class of this area. They have their own language and practice both in joint and nuclear family ties. Chhang (locally fermented millet/ rice wine) is an indispensable part of their food and culture. The Bhume Dance, the Chandi Dance and the Naghi Pooja are some of their major rituals. These highlanders (Khaling Rais) believe that it is essential to worship their ancestors and the earth deity in order to continue human existence. Despite being belonged to Kirant ethnic group, the Khaling Rais celebrate the Hindu and Buddhist festivals as well.

Itinerary :

Day 01: Kathmandu (1300m.)
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we will be transferred to hotel. Remaining time, rest at your own.

Day 02: Kathmandu – Nagarkot ( 2,099m)
Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu valley. In the late afternoon, we would go to Nagarkot via. Bhaktapur. We would be privileged to view beautiful sunrise and sunset from Nagarkot. Overnight in a resort.

Day 03:Kathmandu – Phaplu (2,469m) - Salleri (2,390m)
Early in the morning, we would go to the airport to fly towards Phaplu (2,469m). Upon arrival at Phaplu, we would go to Sallery. While on trek, we would be privileged to see the local market in Salleri and visit the local monasteries. We would also visit Chewang Monastery. It takes about 35 min. to reach Phaplu from Kathmandu. From Phaplu to Salleri, it is the distance of 30 min. normal walk. Overnight in a local lodge.

Day 04: Salleri – Ringmo – Takshindu (3,060m)
We would go to Takshindu via. Ringmo from Salleri. When we are on trek, we would view Sherpa settlements, walk through the dense woods and we would also be able to watch different kinds of birds. In the evening, we would be welcomed by the local people of Takshindu by performing cultural show.

Day 05: Takshindu – Sahasrabeni (3835m) - Beni (approximately 4000m)
Today, we trek from Takshindu via. Sahasra and go up to Beni. While on the trek, we would be privileged to have a majestic view of mountains like-Number, Khatang, Karyolung, etc. early in the morning from Takshindu. We would also visit local cheese factory, local monastery and walk through the alpine forest. Besides, we will also see yak farms on the way, bird watching and experience wilderness and see beautiful landscapes.

Day 06:Beni – Dudhkunda (4561m)
After having food at Beni, we proceed towards Dudhkunda (4561m). It takes about 3-4 hrs. to reach Dudhkunda from Beni. While on the trek, we would be privileged to walk through the alpine forests, see mountain glaciers , see holy lake Dudhkunda, experience high altitude thin air and see spectacular views of mountains such as Number, Khatang, Karyolung, etc. Overnight at Dudhkunda in the camp.

Day 07: Dudhkunda – Takshindu/ Ringmo
Today we trek from Dudhkunda to Takshindu/Ringmo. On the way, we would taste the local cuisines in Ringmo. Apart from this, we would also taste apple delicacies, apple wine, yak cheese and local vegetables. In the evening, we would be shown cultural shows as well.

Day 08:Takshindu – Nunthala (2,194m)– Thulo Dhunga
Having food at Takshindu, we go Thulo Dhunga through Nungthala. It is a distance of 6-7 hrs. normal walk. We would spend our nights in local teahouses. While on trek, we trek through Khaling Rai settlements. At Thulo Dhunga, the Khaling Rai community perform Bhume Dance to welcome us.

Day 09: Thulo Dhunga – Sombare
It is the distance of about 6-7hrs. normal walk. We would trek from Thulo Dhunga – Basa. On the way, we visit Khaling Rai settlement. In the evening, we would spend the night at home-stay.

Day 10:Sombare
Today we stay at Sombare to visit Khaling museum at Sombare. We would also take a tour of the village. Besides, we also observe the unique Khaling Rai lifestyle and culture. We would be shown cultural program as well on request.

Day 11:Sombare – Changmiteng/ Ratnange
We trek from Sombare to Ratnange via. Changmiteng. Changmiteng is a beautiful Sherpa settlement. Today, we will visit local monastery and taste different varieties of local Sherpa drinks. We would enjoy home-stay with the local people at Changmiteng, while there is camping facility at Ratnange.

Day 12: Ratnange – Phaplu (2,469m)
We would enjoy sunrise and panoramic mountain view from Ratnange in the morning. Having lunch at Ratnange, we proceed towards Phaplu. On the way, we would visit different settlements. We would participate in cultural farewell program at Phaplu in the evening.

Day 13:Phaplu – Kathmandu
We take our early flight from Phaplu to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at TIA, our representatives would receive us and we would be transferred to our hotel. Having lunch in the hotel, we would go for shopping in the afternoon. We would be served farewell dinner in the Nepali typical restaurant